1

Soil Science Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Field Technician

Ambler, AK · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Collect a ~800 -gram soil sample using hand shovel or auger soil from a depth of 20 to 100 cm ... Good oral, writing, mathematical and scientific skills * Knowledge of and ability to carry out safe ...

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Collect a ~800 -gram soil sample using hand shovel or auger soil from a depth of 20 to 100 cm ... Good oral, writing, mathematical and scientific skills * Knowledge of and ability to carry out safe ...

Lab Technician (Mid-Level)

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Perform geotechnical laboratory testing on soil, rock, asphalt, and concrete. * Operate a nuclear densometer. * Use and maintain scientific testing equipment. * Process test data using computer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Soil Science information

See Alaska salary details

$33.4K

$51.9K

$104.5K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in Alaska is $51,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,400.00 and $61,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a soil scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Soil Scientist, you need a solid background in soil chemistry, biology, and environmental science, usually supported by a degree in soil science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, GIS mapping software, and soil sampling equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help Soil Scientists interpret data and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate research, effective land management, and informed decision-making in agriculture or environmental conservation.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Soil scientists are in demand due to increasing focus on sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and land management. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and consulting firms, often requiring knowledge of GIS tools and soil analysis techniques.

What is the difference between Soil Science vs Agronomist?

AspectSoil ScienceAgronomist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Soil Science, certifications in soil analysisBachelor's or Master's in Agronomy, certifications in crop management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling, research facilitiesFarms, research stations, consulting settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, soil testing labsFarming operations, agricultural companies, consulting firms

Soil Science focuses on understanding soil properties, classification, and health, often involving research and laboratory work. Agronomists apply this knowledge to improve crop production and advise farmers. While both roles require similar credentials and may work in related environments, Soil Scientists tend to focus more on soil analysis and conservation, whereas Agronomists emphasize crop management and sustainable farming practices.

What careers involve soil science?

Careers involving soil science include soil scientist, agronomist, environmental consultant, land use planner, and conservation scientist. These roles often require knowledge of soil properties, environmental regulations, and fieldwork skills, and may involve working for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies.

What can I do with soil science?

Soil science professionals analyze soil properties, manage land resources, and support sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. They work in research, environmental consulting, land management, and education, often using tools like GIS and soil testing equipment, and may require certifications or advanced degrees.

What are some common challenges soil scientists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can they prepare for them?

Soil scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to sampling sites during fieldwork. Preparation is key—this includes reviewing site conditions in advance, ensuring proper equipment is packed, and developing contingency plans for weather disruptions. Collaborating with local landowners or agencies can also help overcome access issues, while thorough pre-field planning minimizes risks and ensures data collection is efficient and accurate.

What is soil science?

Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource, including its formation, classification, mapping, physical and chemical properties, and its role in supporting plant growth. Soil scientists analyze how soils interact with living organisms, water, and the atmosphere to better understand agricultural productivity, environmental quality, and land management. This field is crucial for sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and land use planning.

How much do soil scientists get paid?

Soil scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $63,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can lead to higher compensation, especially in consulting or research roles.
What job categories do people searching Soil Science jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Science jobs in Alaska are:
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Soil Science Research Technician 3

University of Alaska

Palmer, AK • On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

The Agricultural Research Lab is housed within the UAF Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station and the UAF Institute of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Extension. We are stationed in Palmer, and our work extends across Alaska. Our team includes field technicians, lab technicians, data analysts, students, and a Principal Investigator. We work with staff within AFES and IANRE, state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, research collaborators, and farmers. Our mission is to conduct stakeholder-led research on protecting and managing the soil and developing recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices uniquely suited for Alaskans. We share research outcomes through a variety of outreach outlets. Through this work, we promote healthy Alaskan food, ecosystems, and communities.
A successful technician will work with the senior lab technician to follow all established laboratory protocols, assist in the development of new protocols, assist with lab activity planning, assist with maintaining laboratory supply inventories, assist with field sampling as needed, maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab, integrate into the research team, and practice clear and frequent communication with the team.
Minimum Qualifications:
Two years college coursework in field relevant to the research (e.g. science, math, business) and two years experience in a field relevant to the research or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Position Details:
This position is located in Palmer Alaska. This is a full-time, term-funded, non-exempt staff position complete with both a competitive salary and full employee benefits package . UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage. New hires will be placed on the UA Staff Salary Schedule , Grade 77, based on education and experience.
Application review will begin on August 17, 2026. To ensure consideration, please submit your application by 11:55 PM Alaska Standard Time on August 16, 2026.
To view the full list of job responsibilities, please click HERE .
If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Kenna Metivier, Signers' Business Office at kjmetivier@alaska.edu
This is a term-funded position reviewed annually for contract renewal at the University's discretion.
*To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.
The University of Alaska (UA) is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact the ADA team at ua-ada@alaska.edu .
The University of Alaska ( www.alaska.edu ) is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination ( www.alaska.edu/nondiscrimination ) against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.
The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.
Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.
All employees at the University of Alaska are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism when conducting or engaged in university business.
* Each university within the University of Alaska system publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report which contains information regarding campus safety and security including topics such as: campus law enforcement authority; crime reporting policies; campus alerts (Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications); fire safety policies and procedures; programs to prevent dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking; the procedures the University will follow when one of these crimes is reported; and other matters of importance related to security on campus. The report also contains information about crime statistics for the three most recent calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in On-Campus Student Housing Facilities; in Noncampus buildings or property owned or controlled by the University or a recognized student organization; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also contains fire statistics for any fires occurring in an On-Campus Student Housing Facility during the three most recent calendar years.
Access to the reports is available at:
UAA: (Addresses Anchorage campus, Aviation Technology Complex, JBER - Elmendorf Extension, JBER - Richardson Extension, Kenai Peninsula College - Kachemak Bay campus, Kenai Peninsula College - Kenai River campus, Kodiak College, Kodiak High School Extension, Matanuska-Susitna College, Prince William Sound College, and Prince William Sound College - Cordova Extension) Online: https://www.uaa.alaska.edu/students/safety . Request a paper copy in person: UAA Police Department Office at Room 114 of Eugene Short Hall on the Anchorage campus / UAA Dean of Students Office at Room 122 of Rasmuson Hall on the Anchorage campus. Request a paper copy by mail: 907-786-1120 or police@uaa.alaska.edu / 907-786-1214 or uaa_deanofstudents@alaska.edu .
UAF: (Addresses Fairbanks Campus, Bristol Bay Campus, Chukchi Campus, Community and Technical College, Kasitsna Bay Campus, Seward Marine Center, Tok Campus, Kuskokwim Campus, and Northwest Campus) Online: https://www.uaf.edu/orca/files/ASFSR.pdf . Request a paper copy in person: UAF Office of Rights, Compliance and Accountability on the 3rd Floor of Constitution Hall. Request a paper copy by mail: 907-474-7300 or uaf-orca@alaska.edu .
UAS: (Addresses the Juneau Auke Bay Campus, Juneau Technical Education Center, Sitka Campus, & Ketchikan Campus) Online: https://uas.alaska.edu/equity-and-compliance/docs/clery/UAS_ASFSR.pdf . Request a paper copy in person: Hendrickson Building, Suite 202 on the Juneau campus. Request a paper copy by mail: 907-796-6371 or emailing uas.clery@alaska.edu .

University of Alaska logo

About University of Alaska

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Alaska is a prominent player in the education industry, located in Fairbanks, AK, US. Established in 1917, it is a well-known public research university providing a range of academic programs in various spheres like research, arts, technology, and natural sciences. As part of the broader University of Alaska System, the institution thrives in fulfilling its central mission - to inspire learning and to advance and disseminate knowledge through teaching, research, and public service, emphasizing the North and its diverse peoples.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fairbanks, AK, US

Year founded

1917

Social media